Hyundai ix35: new look for compact Korean SUV

Images of the facelifted Hyundai ix35 have been released ahead of the updated Korean SUV’s imminent domestic launch.

The images â€" published by enthusiast website Carscoops â€" reveal a new three-slat front grille, a unique foglight design and an underbody protection panel that differ from the Euro-spec Hyundai ix35 update that was revealed at the Geneva motor show in March.

Rather than adopt a refreshed look, however, Hyundai Australia today confirmed the updated ix35 headed for our market would retain its current grille design when it arrives in the third quarter of this year.

The local division will continue to source the ix35 both from South Korea and the Czech Republic following the introduction of the mid-life update, ensuring some minor specification and styling differences in the upgraded line-up.

The images also reveal new alloy wheel designs, revised LED tail-lights and an updated interior for the refreshed Korean-market compact SUV.

The mid-life upgrade will bring with it the Korean brand’s ‘Nu’ 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol engine, promising greater power and improved efficiency over the ‘Theta-II’ engine it replaces.

Performance data for the local version of the new engine is yet to be confirmed. It could match its 130kW/213Nm output from the mid-sized Hyundai i40.

The new 2.0-litre is likely to be offered beneath the existing 2.4-litre petrol, while an upgraded version of the 2.0-litre R-Series diesel engine, with low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation and other “clean technology” enhancements, will also feature locally.

The new ix35 also adopts Hyundai’s three-mode Flex Steer system â€" also available in the i30 and Santa Fe â€" that allows drivers to select between Comfort, Normal and Sport steering settings.

Full specifications and pricing details will be revealed closer to the launch of the upgraded Hyundai ix35 in the coming months.